The Three Musketeers at the Candidates Tournament

Vidit - Pragg

The game of the day was definitely the derby between two Indian chess grandmasters, Vidit Santosh Gujrathi and Praggnanandhaa R. Pragg surprised Vidit early in the game with moves 4...f5 and 7...Na5. Vidit spent nearly twenty minutes contemplating his eighth move before playing Nxd4, and then another twenty minutes thinking about move 11. Qe2, thus accepting the challenge of a sharp and double-edged game.

Today we will start from the end and look at the current standings after the third round. Although the tournament is just beginning and will certainly bring many surprises, the potential three top favorites have already created a small lead. They are also the last three musketeers who have not yet experienced the bitterness of defeat. 

Gukesh - Nepo

A draw in this game probably suited both players. No matter who you support, you might agree with me that Nepo enjoys chess. He accepts every result with a smile, and even in this photo, he is completely at ease. Who knows, maybe he will win this tournament for the third time and tilt the stars in his favor.

Abasov - Nakamura

From the photos, it is impossible to tell whether Nakamura has gotten over yesterday's loss, or if he was more satisfied with this result. It may also be true that the game ended in a fair draw and dissatisfaction would be out of place.

Caruana - Firouzja

It is said that when things are not going well, something needs to change. Whether Alireza is doing well or not, only he knows best, but a change is certainly in his clothing. He is shifting from broccoli green to more common colors. Fabiano maintains his style, subtly indicating that there is no reason for a change yet. His current first place may even confirm that.

Additionally, I'll mention that Míša Maník's video analysis will be released this afternoon. So take a look at this article later on, it will definitely be interesting.

Thanks to everyone and good luck! PK

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